How Often Should You Pest Control Your Home?
Your Optimal Pest Control Calendar
Getting professional pest control services regularly is important for keeping bugs out of your house, especially for home and business owners who want to avoid a major pest problem. But how frequently should treatments be done? It depends on location, how old your home is, types of pests, as conditions can be different in Australia. Preventative services every 3-6 months are best, so make sure you schedule them accordingly.
Pest Control Frequency
| Common Pest | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ants | Every 3-6 months | More often if near woods/food |
| Cockroaches | Every 2-3 months | Require treatments to control reproduction |
| Spiders | Quarterly | Perimeter spray exterior entry points |
| Stinging Pests (Wasps, Hornets, Bees) | As needed in warmer months | Need nest treatment |
| Silverfish | As needed | Exterior spray provides protection |
| Rodents (Mice, Rats) | Monthly | A high reproduction requires frequent removal. |
| Termites | Yearly monitoring | Consider termite barriers and regular termite inspections. |
| Bed Bugs | Treatment every 1-3 months until gone | Retreatments are important. Consult pest control experts for severe infestations. |
| Fleas & Ticks | As needed, monthly for high risk | Treat pets simultaneously |
| Pantry & Fabric Pests | As needed, remove food sources | Frequent deep cleaning is also key. |
How Often Should Pest Control Be Done | Factors To Consider
1. Location and Age of House
- Old houses or homes near wooded areas get more pests. Spraying every 2-3 months is better.
- Brand-new homes may only need yearly treatments.
- Also, consider scheduling building and pest inspections.
2. Type of Pest
- Pests such as cockroaches, termites, and bed bugs need stronger initial spray, then ongoing treatments every 1-3 months.
- Pests such as spiders or ants need quarterly treatments.
- This aspect is central to any successful pest management plan.
3. How Bad the Infestation Is
- Pest infestations needs thorough spray solutions for 1-2 months to prevent more bugs.
4. What Spray Method is Used
- Fast knockdown spray treatment might only temporarily work, needing to repeat sprays.
- Longer-lasting spray, bait traps, or tent fumigation can provide protection for 3-6+ months.
General Tips
High Risk Houses
Some properties require more frequent pest control inspections to treat infestations throughout the year. Regular maintenance of your home is essential to keep pests at bay. Preventive measures also helps.
Season Changes
Some pests get worse during certain seasons. For instance, ants and stinging pests increase in summer while mice try to move inside in winter. Time your treatment appropriately.
DIY vs Calling the Pros
Over-the-counter pest sprays alone don’t last. It’s best left to professionals who have the right equipment and products to ensure a safe and effective solution. Getting on a regular professional extermination is the surest way to keep pests away long-term.
FAQs
How often should I spray my home to control ants?
Every 3 to 6 months is usually enough to keep ant infestation under control. Combine spraying with removing sources of food and sealing cracks in areas where ants enter.
What is the recommended frequency for spraying cockroaches?
Every 3 months. Frequent treatments keep roach numbers low.
How regularly should spiders be treated?
You usually don’t need to spray most house spiders. If black widows or brown recluses occur frequently inside, talk to your pest professional about the safest methods and locations to target them for spider control inside the home. An outdoor barrier spray against spiders every 2 to 3 months during spring through summer may help reduce how many come inside.
What is the typical duration of effectiveness for a pest control treatment?
Treatment last 1 to 3 months. Insect growth regulators that prevent baby insects can last 3 to 7 months. Well-maintained bait stations give continuous control for half a year. Fumigation eliminates pests for 9+ months. Termite control liquids protect your home for 5 to 10 years.
About how long does a normal pest control service visit take?
The standard home pest service appointment takes 30 to 90 minutes, sometimes less for small jobs. More extensive infestations take longer.
What lengths of warranty do pest control companies usually offer?
Typical warranties run 1 year on termite jobs, 90 days on a routine pest treatment, and up to 5 years on termite bait system installations. Contracted home services often extend an annual renewal guarantee.
Around how much does pest control service cost?
Average per visit fees range from $80 to $150, with the higher end for big infestations, fumigation, or termite control. Contracted year-round service is discounted, with exact pricing quotes following inspection of your unique situation.
In any case, a thorough inspection is the best way to identify pests early and protect your health. However, always rely on an exterminator’s experience for the best outcome.
Conclusion
Getting on a regular pest control solutions provides the best prevention against pests.
Quarterly or bimonthly services ensure protection while targeting treatment solutions during seasons when specific types of pests pose a higher risk.
Reach out to your professional pest controller for custom recommendations based on your property, location, and issues.
Pro Tip:
If you discover any unwanted pests that could lead to structural damage around moisture or water sources in your home, consult a pest control expert right away. Termites or carpenter ants are attracted to damp wood and can severely compromise structural integrity over time if left untreated.
